Top universities of 2019 revealed

Times Higher Education has just released the Asia-Pacific University Ranking 2019, which ranks more than 300 universities from 13 different nations in the Asia-Pacific. Read on to find out which Australian and NZ universities made the cut this year!

Up from fourth place last year, the University of Melbourne is the only university outside Asia to crack the top five. Last year, the editor of Times Higher Education, Ellie Bothwell, told The Guardian that Australian universities will face increasing competition with Asia. “The country boasts some world-class institutions – and immense potential for greater success on the global stage,” said Ms Bothwell. “To excel, universities need strong investment and they need to be able to attract and retain the very best global talent and research collaborations.”

The Melbourne School of Design at the University of Melbourne.

Currently ranked number one in Australia and number 32 in the world, the University of Melbourne offers 11 undergrad degrees in nearly 100 fields of study and 270 graduate degrees. It offers a slightly different path from most other Australian universities, combining broad undergrad studies with professional specialisation at graduate level. You can find more info about this educational model (“The Melbourne Model”) online.

In an article published by the University of Melbourne, Vice-Chancellor Duncan Maskell said the latest ranking showed improved scores in several indicators, including teaching, which reflects the University’s focus on improving the student experience. “The University has and will continue to invest in a range of things that give our students the best possible experience. Establishing, maintaining and growing teaching and research links with industry and other partners including Government and the not-for-profit sector is a priority for the University,” Professor Maskell said.

Australian universities in the top 25

The ability of a university to attract students from around the world is a key factor in its success, particularly if it leads to collaboration with international partners.

Professor Mike Brooks, Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) and Provost at the University of Adelaide, believes that their record levels of international students contributed to their high marks this year. “Our international outlook is one of the University of Adelaide’s great strengths, helping to provide the State with global connections and partnerships, and an enviable reputation for our research and education,” Professor Brooks said in an article published by the University of Adelaide.

“International students also enhance the cultural and social fabric of our community, and provide local students with a greater understanding of the world around them,” he added.

The University of Wollongong was one of the Aussie universities which jumped in its ranking this year, from 41 to 37. UOW Vice-Chancellor, Professor Paul Wellings CBE said that the regional university is making headway in its goal of being in the top one percent of universities. “We are consistently improving our performance in the increasingly competitive environment of the Asia-Pacific region,” Professor Wellings said in an article published by the University of Wollongong.

Victoria University also rose a few places this year, from 55th place when it first made the list in 2017. Professor Peter Dawkins, Vice-Chancellor and President, Victoria University, said of the ranking: “The Times Higher Education Asia-Pacific Ranking is another key indicator of our progress and position, and we’re delighted to receive the honour.”

Read more about the performance indicators for the ranking system, which take into account the learning environment, research reputation and influence, international outlook and industry income, here.

Author: Larissa Fedunik-Hofman

Larissa is the editorial assistant for Careers with STEM and a Chemistry PhD student. Larissa’s goal is to promote public engagement with STEM through inspiring stories.